Contents
Description
Nervilia is a genus of terrestrial orchids that belongs to the Orchidaceae family. The genus is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. Nervilia orchids are known for their unique leaf patterns that resemble the human nervous system, hence the name Nervilia.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Orchidaceae |
| Genus | Nervilia |
Appearance
Nervilia orchids have round tubers and solitary leaves that grow from the center of the tuber. The leaves are approximately 5-15 cm long and 4-10 cm wide. The leaf blades are ovate to elliptic in shape and have a unique pattern of veins that resemble the human nervous system. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and they grow on a spike that emerges from the center of the leaf. The flowers are usually greenish or brownish in color.
Care Guide
Water: Nervilia orchids prefer to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water them thoroughly once a week and let the soil dry out slightly before watering again.
Fertilization: Fertilize Nervilia orchids every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Soil: Nervilia orchids prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and bark works well.
Sunlight: Nervilia orchids prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Nervilia orchids are not frost-tolerant and should be kept in temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Nervilia orchids are susceptible to root rot if they are overwatered or if they are planted in soil that does not drain well. They may also be affected by spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. To prevent pests and diseases, make sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and inspect the leaves regularly for signs of pest infestation.
Habitat
Nervilia orchids are found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and rocky areas. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. Some species of Nervilia are endangered due to habitat loss and over-collection for medicinal purposes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Nervilia orchids be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Nervilia orchids can be grown indoors as long as they are provided with bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Nervilia orchids be fertilized?
A: Nervilia orchids should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Q: Are Nervilia orchids difficult to care for?
A: Nervilia orchids are relatively easy to care for as long as they are provided with the right growing conditions. They prefer moist but not waterlogged soil, bright but indirect light, and temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
Q: Are Nervilia orchids suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, Nervilia orchids are suitable for beginners as they are relatively easy to care for and do not require specialized growing conditions.
Related Plants
- Calanthe
- Cymbidium
- Dendrobium
- Phaius
References
- Chen, X. Q., et al. (2019). Phylogenetic analysis of Nervilia based on plastid and nuclear molecular markers. PloS one, 14(7), e0219860.
- Christenhusz, M. J., & Byng, J. W. (2016). The number of known plants species in the world and its annual increase. Phytotaxa, 261(3), 201-217.
- Yang, Y., et al. (2019). Identification of Nervilia species using DNA barcoding in China. Plant diversity, 41(5), 303-310.
